Fiction writers need to plan their plots. They need to be organized. But should they also allow their characters and the plot to develop on their own?

Most people coming to us to help them write their manuscripts are first-time writers. They often don’t know where to start, or have started and are not sure where to go next. One really good question is “How much should I plan my plot?”

A huge caveat needs to be placed on any answer to this, including my answer here. No two writers are the same. No two stories are the same. The best answer for you might not be the best answer for another author. So take the following paragraphs as good advice that might be helpful, but don’t take it as Gospel truth. [Read more…]